Angel Chicken Rice

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Angel Chicken Rice is a beloved comfort food casserole known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, creamy cheeses, and a blend of seasonings, baked to perfection for a satisfying meal. With its versatile nature, Angel Chicken Rice lends itself to various creative variations, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences and ingredients available. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or served at gatherings, Angel Chicken Rice promises warmth and comfort in every delicious bite.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
  • 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (such as Good Seasons)
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided use
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13” casserole dish generously with cooking spray.

2. Prepare Creamy Base:

  • In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.

3. Combine Ingredients:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Assembly:

  • Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Cheese Topping:

  • Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake:

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.

7. Serve and Garnish:

  • Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before removing the foil. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Calories: 548 kcal per serving
  • Servings: 8 servings

Serving and Storage Tips :

Serving Suggestions:

  • Angel Chicken Rice is best served hot and fresh from the oven, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
  • Pair this creamy casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance its richness.
  • Serve portions in individual bowls or on plates for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.

Storage Instructions:

  • Store leftover Angel Chicken Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • To reheat, place servings in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F until heated to your liking.
  • For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped with foil for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Additional Tips:

  • Make-ahead: Prepare the casserole up to assembling it in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure thorough heating.
  • Customize: Experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables like peas or broccoli for additional texture and flavor.
  • Leftover remix: Use leftover Angel Chicken Rice as a filling for burritos or wraps for a quick and hearty lunch option.

Variations :

1. Mediterranean Twist:

  • Substitute Italian dressing mix with Greek seasoning and add sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives. Top with feta cheese before baking for a Mediterranean flair.

2. Tex-Mex Fusion:

  • Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup and Italian dressing mix with taco seasoning. Mix in corn, black beans, and diced green chilies. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream.

3. Veggie Delight:

  • Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach into the chicken and rice mixture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option. Top with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

4. Spicy Kick:

  • Add diced jalapeños or green chilies to the mixture and sprinkle with pepper jack cheese before baking. Serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.

5. Asian Fusion:

  • Use teriyaki sauce instead of Italian dressing mix and add stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

6. Low-Carb Option:

  • Replace rice with cauliflower rice and reduce the amount of butter and cream cheese. Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Bake until cauliflower is tender and cheese is melted.

7. Seafood Twist:

  • Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat. Mix in seafood seasoning and diced celery. Top with a blend of Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses before baking.

8. Breakfast Casserole:

  • Serve Angel Chicken Rice for breakfast by adding cooked breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, and diced bell peppers. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake until eggs are set.

9. Ranch-Inspired Twist:

  • Replace Italian dressing mix with ranch seasoning. Add cooked bacon pieces, diced green onions, and a sprinkle of ranch-flavored breadcrumbs on top before baking.

10. Cheesy Broccoli Addition:

  • Mix in steamed broccoli florets and a handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the chicken and rice mixture. Top with more cheddar cheese and bake until bubbly.

11. Pesto Infusion:

  • Stir in a few tablespoons of basil pesto into the cream cheese and butter mixture. Add sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

12. Cajun Spice:

  • Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and mix in diced bell peppers, onions, and celery. Top with a blend of pepper jack and mozzarella cheeses before baking.

13. Lemon Herb Delight:

  • Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the chicken and rice mixture. Use a blend of Fontina and Parmesan cheeses for a tangy finish.

FAQs:

1. What is Angel Chicken Rice?

  • Angel Chicken Rice is a creamy and comforting casserole dish made with diced or shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream cheese, butter, and a blend of seasonings, topped with melted cheese.

2. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

  • Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Simply shred or dice the chicken before mixing it with the other ingredients.

3. How can I make Angel Chicken Rice gluten-free?

  • Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure that the Italian dressing mix or any seasoning used is gluten-free certified.

4. Can I prepare Angel Chicken Rice ahead of time?

  • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

5. How do I know when Angel Chicken Rice is done baking?

  • The casserole is ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the center is heated through. It typically takes about 20-25 minutes in a preheated oven.

6. How should I store leftovers of Angel Chicken Rice?

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 1-2 months.

7. Can I customize the cheese used in Angel Chicken Rice?

  • Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses to suit your taste.

8. What can I serve with Angel Chicken Rice?

  • It pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

9. How can I make Angel Chicken Rice spicier?

  • Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking for a spicy kick.

10. Can Angel Chicken Rice be made vegetarian?

  • Yes, you can substitute the chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

These FAQs provide answers to common queries about preparing, storing, and customizing Angel Chicken Rice, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal experience.

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Angel Chicken Rice, a satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the comforting blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy cheeses in every bite!